From the chief editor’s desk

Aerospace medicine stands at the confluence of human adaptability, operational demands, and evolving technologies. As operational demands become more complex, the questions we address as a community is no longer limited to survival in extreme environments but extend to performance optimization, resilience, and holistic recovery. This issue highlights several critical domains of research and practice that merit attention.

The present issue of the Journal presents to you a collection of intellectually stimulating articles. The challenge of visual adaptation post-de-googling of night-vision goggle is operationally significant and influences mission safety. We present to you an interesting research article on this, enhancing our understanding of the topic, which remains crucial for night adaptation. Another article on 3D anthropometry, bringing out a comparative study with traditional linear measurements, is an interesting read on how 3D anthropometer may open new frontiers in cockpit design and ergonomics in operational settings. Equally significant is the psychological support and assessment during post-accident recovery of aircrew. In this issue, an original article on a structured psychological support system, including early intervention, counseling, and long-term monitoring, brings out the importance of psychological support to ensure recovery and enhance return to duty potential. An article giving an insight into air evacuation of critically ill patients brings out the importance of medical expertise and operational knowledge needed for safe casualty evacuation. Complementing this, an innovative research on yogic exercises as countermeasures to neurovestibular challenges in microgravity presents an intriguing avenue reflecting the innovative spirit of aerospace medicine.

The recent mission of the second Indian astronaut to space and the first to the International Space Station after four decades highlights the critical role of aerospace medicine in enabling safe human spaceflight and inspires future explorations. As the horizons of our discipline continue to expand, we invite our readers to contribute through original research, case studies, and articles that enrich collective knowledge and advance the science and practice of aerospace medicine.

I thank all the contributors, readers, reviewers, and the Editorial board members for your invaluable support and contribution to the Journal.

Welcome aboard and Happy Reading!!